Since pets aren’t able to speak, it can be difficult to determine if they are in pain. Pets tend to be extremely stoic, and may eat despite rotting teeth, may walk despite broken bones, and may wag their tail despite having just had surgery. So how do you tell if something is amiss? Some pets will vocalize when in pain, whether a whine, whimper, howl, or growl. However, not all pets will, so this is not always a good indicator. Sometimes there are physical signs of pain that are visible-limping, trembling, dilated pupils (unless the eye is what is painful, then may see squinting, and dilated or constricted pupils), increased heart rate and increased respiratory rate, changes in gait, posture, tail and/or ear position, mobility, or even changes in the way they sit or lay (leg cocked out, prayer position, curled up or stretched out differently). Overgrooming an area or barbering the hair can indicate pain, as can a complete lack of grooming. Changes in eating, drinking, urination, defecation, and sleep habits may all indicate pain also. More often, pets will have subtle changes in their personality. They may act more anxious-whining, pacing, licking, panting, seeming unable to get comfortable/or unable to relax. They may also be agitated, and may even become aggressive. […]
Learn MoreHeritage Animal Hospital is a full-service veterinarian clinic that provides examinations, diagnostic services, dental care, surgical services, medicine, grooming and boarding services in Maple Grove, Minnesota. We are dedicated to providing the highest level of pet care possible and facilitating an environment where client communication and education are at the forefront of our practice.
12624 Base Lake Road
Maple Grove, MN 55369
Mon-Fri: 7:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Sat: 7:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.